The Jonathan Green Maritime Cultural Center is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Richard David Weedman on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, in Charleston, South Carolina. Richard, the beloved life partner of renowned artist Jonathan Green, was a man of quiet brilliance, boundless empathy, and unwavering dedication.
Born on July 4, 1940, in Madison, South Dakota, Richard’s life was one of extraordinary achievement, marked by a deep compassion for others, a keen intellect, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. His journey began in Rapid City, South Dakota, where he developed a deep bond with his identical twin brother, Robert, and a love of nature that would stay with him throughout his life. Richard’s early love for creativity and the human spirit led him to pursue degrees in psychology, English, and fine arts, and his professional career saw him make significant contributions to the fields of behavioral health, addiction treatment, and healthcare administration.
As a child welfare officer in New Mexico, Director of Behavioral Health at Grant Hospital in Chicago, and later as President and CEO of Healthcare Network, Inc., Richard’s work touched countless lives. He guided hospitals and institutions worldwide, helping them meet and exceed the highest standards of psychiatric care. His work earned him recognition as a Fellow of the American College of Addiction Treatment Administrators, as well as numerous other honors.
Yet, Richard’s greatest joy and legacy was his 45-year partnership with Jonathan Green. Together, they built an extraordinary life filled with love, creativity, and a shared commitment to preserving and promoting the history and culture of African and African American communities. Together, they curated a remarkable collection of Pan-African and Pan-American art, Vibrant Visions, and collaborated on countless artistic projects.
To honor Richard’s profound legacy, the Richard David Weedman African Maritime Research Center has been established at the Jonathan Green Maritime Cultural Center, University of South Carolina Beaufort. This center will focus on preserving the African maritime histories and the significant contributions made by people of the African continent throughout the Diaspora.
The Center will serve as a global resource for scholars, students, and the public, offering research, educational programs, and collaborative opportunities with institutions worldwide. It will promote a deeper understanding of Africa’s enduring influence on global maritime culture, art, and commerce, reflecting Richard’s passion for scholarship, history, and cultural preservation.
Richard is survived by his life partner Jonathan Green, his sister GeorgeAnne Planck, and his nephews John and Randy Planck. In accordance with his wishes, a private ceremony will be held to honor his life and legacy.
About the Richard David Weedman African Maritime Research Center
The Richard David Weedman African Maritime Research Center is dedicated to the scholarly investigation of the African continent’s maritime histories and the contributions of its people throughout the Diaspora. Through rigorous academic research, cultural preservation, and global collaboration, the Center aims to highlight the often-overlooked African influences on maritime history and foster a deeper appreciation for the continent’s lasting impact on global culture, trade, and navigation.
Mission:
• To conduct and support research focused on the maritime legacies of Africa and its Diaspora.
• To preserve and promote the cultural and historical contributions of African maritime communities.
• To foster cross-cultural understanding through education and outreach programs.
• To collaborate with institutions worldwide to expand awareness of Africa’s role in shaping global maritime history.
For media inquiries or additional information about the Center, please contact Dr. Kim Cliett Long at kl59@uscb.edu
Media Contact
Company Name: Jonathan Green Maritime Cultural Center
Contact Person: Dr. Kim Cliett Long
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Country: United States
Website: https://www.jgmcc.org/